Primarily to have a strong insulating walling system that both protects the building from the weather and decorates with colour, and gives a textured masonry effect of your choice. Around the world similar systems are seen as providing the highest insulating walls whilst measurably reducing on-going energy bills.
Where do I use the Unitex Base Board* system?
The Unitex Base Board system can be used on external walls of Class 1 to 10 Housing and Commercial Projects. It can be installed by direct fix to the timber or steel frame or via cavity battens. It can also be installed on battens for older walls (brick, block, weatherboard, compressed cement fibreboard sheeting etc).
*Unitex Base Board is part of the Unitex EIFS range
How long have EIFS been used in Australia?
The first External Insulation Finishing System (EIFS) project by Unitex was built in 1984. These were for Victorian Housing Commission blocks of 4-6 units and single concrete houses in Jordanville (Chadstone) and Preston. The then Unitex EIFS system proved successful in solving internal wall condensation issues (that had up until that time been unsolvable) and internal living comfort. Unitex were the first in its field to have successfully manufactured the EIFS system, in Australia, and were also the first Australian EIFS projects to be monitored scientifically by The Melbourne University Building Energy Research Group.
Does it burn and will it leak?
When your Unitex EIFS system wall is installed in accordance with the technical manual it will not allow water into your building structure. Uni-EIFS have been tested under Australian Standards for Building Materials flammability and like timber are suitable for use up to 3 floors or 8.5 meters above ground slab based on flammability test standard AS 1530 (part 3). Such systems are not suitable where a 1 hour and greater fire rating is required (i.e. on neighbour or party walls).
Does my builder have on-site technical support from Unitex?
Most certainly! The Unitex Technical Sales Force will spend time on site with our valued customers to achieve the best from our products for your project.
What is the cost of the Unitex Base Board System compared to other building solutions (such as brick veneer and rendered block etc)?
The Unitex Base Board System generally costs similar or less than rendered brick veneer etc, however in R-value (insulating value) offered the Uni-EIFS is approximately 400% more energy efficient than equivalent cost for rendered brick veneer.
How do I know if the applicator has done it to the Unitex specifications?
The Unitex EIFS Technical manual and all instructions required is on the Unitex website, or please contact Unitex and our experienced Technical Sales Rep will check the purchase records and if needed will attend an onsite inspection.
Does the system need experienced trades people to install it?
Yes, Unitex recommends that Uni-EIFS systems are only installed by an experienced Trades person. Unitex can arrange for a local recommended Trades person to quote and carry out the installation or Unitex also offers a plan and on site quoting service for the customer’s peace of mind. Unitex installation manuals and Guidelines are also available on our website for your own understanding of the process. Unitex Technical Sales Representatives are also available for technical support and site inspections.
How is the Unitex Base Board system installed?
With a specified number and array of mechanical fasteners screwed (minimum of 30 mm) into the timber or steel frame. There are fastners to suit all thicknesses of Unitex EIFS and conditions (ie coastal, inland, near breaking surf etc, wind classification areas).
Can I render over painted brickwork?
Yes. If the paint is well bound and not flaking, peeling, bubbling etc. The recommended key coat is Unitex Polymer Render as it is a render designed to adhere to difficult substrates such as strongly adhering paint. As always, ensure the surface is dry, clean and free of oils, dust, dirt etc before applying. Test with a sharp knife, using the “Cross-hatch Method” (see Unitex.) If greater than 15% pull off and remove all loose and poorly adhering paint prior to coating.